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Abuse in the Work Space: What Are Your Options?

Meghan Belnap

January 09, 2017

While many people love their job, others would rather do almost anything than be abused throughout the day. Whether it is sexual harassment or verbal abuse by a boss or co-worker, the good news is that in today's world there are numerous options that can keep this from happening. If you or someone you know is a victim of abuse in the work space, here are a few ways to stop it once and for all.

Tell a Supervisor
If abuse of any kind is happening in the workplace, the first step should be to tell a supervisor what is occurring. If the supervisor is the one acting as the abuser, making a trip to the Human Resources office to document the abuse should be done as soon as possible. By exposing the abuse and making the employer aware of what is happening, the groundwork is laid for future legal action if needed.

Discussing Legal Options
When it comes to understanding the legal options in these cases, working with a professional who has a Master's in social work can be crucial. Not only can they refer you to other agencies that may be able to provide information on legal options, but a trained social worker can also give advice on how to overcome the effects the abuse is having on your mental health. Because most social service agencies work closely with Legal Aid societies as well as other attorneys, this can be an important step in pursuing possible litigation against an employer.

Launching the Counterattack 
If legal options have been discussed and appear likely to be followed, there are certain things that should be done. For starters, pay a visit to your primary care doctor and explain what is happening. Not only will they possibly be able to give you medication to help calm your nerves, but this also begins the process of launching the counterattack. By beginning to put pressure on the employer by making others aware of what is happening, it may be beneficial for them to rid themselves of the person causing the problems in order to avoid bad publicity or legal action.

While workplace abuse can be a difficult situation to experience on any level, those who do so should realize there are a number of options available to them. Whether speaking with a trained social worker or filing a complaint with Human Resources, these steps will likely help to end what may be an almost unbearable situation.

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